Then Jesus called for the children and said to the disciples, "Let the children come to me. Don't stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn't receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it."
Luke 18:16-17
(New Living Translation)

Jesus said the kingdom of God belongs to little children and that we must be like a child to enter. I often wonder about this passage and what it means? I've heard people say it means we must have the faith of a child, but what does that mean?

Possibly we need to first look at how children think about things. For instance, I've read that there are actual warning labels on products for children that read something like this: On a tricycle --- "Not intended for highway driving". On a package of silly putty --"Do not use as ear plugs", On a child-sized Superman costume -- "Wearing of this garment does not enable you to fly".

I guess the average manufacturer does not underestimate the ability of a child to think and act outside the box, nor do they question a child's belief that all things are possible.

I know that I witnessed this belief and willingness of children to open their hearts and minds to all of the possibilities that God has for them, in my experience of watching the children of Bethel transition to their new church here at APLC. At the announcement that their former church was to close and that they would be finding a new church, - the children at first may have seemed a bit confused, but it did not make them anxious or afraid as it did for so many adults. They had complete trust that wherever they would go, whatever the next step was to be, all would be safe and happy for them. This complete trust was evidenced as they entered the doors of APLC. They laughed and played and joined in immediately, without question of whether this was the right place for them, or the right thing to do. As they were so warmly welcomed they continued their journey as if nothing had changed. As I look at these children now, over one year later, they act as though they have always been here as they put their trust in all the new faces they've encountered, and seem assured of all the things that are presented to them. They are happy and very comfortable in their surroundings and continue to show such a complete trust. This simple faith is one that we should celebrate and encourage everyday of our life.

Who is more faithful than a child, to the message "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13, NKJV)? I believe having a child-like faith says to us: Embrace the journey though it may take you to strange new places; embrace the adventure with full confidence in your father. That's how Jesus said we should be; like a child who trusts and has faith in all that is taught to them.

Did you know that the average child smiles 400 times a day -- the average adult only 15? What is it that we lose on our way to adulthood? In our efforts to achieve success, to be taken seriously, to be "mature" - what is it that we give up along the way? I don't think that it comes as any surprise or wonder to us that Jesus said again and again that we must be like children. And not just because children are gentle - but because they are enthusiastic, bold and willing.

Since this experience, I think I understand this truth a little better. As all of us continue our faith journey, I hope we see life through childlike eyes. If we do, I am sure that we will never stop being surprised over even the little lessons God brings our way.

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the children of the world. Thank you for those who show us what it means to be joyful and optimistic, confident and faithful even in the most impossible of situations. Help us to remember that with you all things are possible. Amen.

Contributed by Chris
Sunday June 28, 2009
Liturgical Year B Week 28
Sunday Gospel Readings:
Lectionary 13 (Proper 8)
Fourth Sunday after Pentecost